Obafemi Martins faces backlash for backing Seyi Tinubu as NFF leader

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has faced serious backlash after suggesting that Seyi Tinubu might be a good choice to lead the Nigeria Football Federation. This follows the recent mass resignation of former president Ibrahim Gusau and his board, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Last Thursday, Gusau, the NFF general secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, and other board members stepped down. Their resignation came amid public anger over their leadership and the failures seen in various national teams.

One major failure was the Super Eagles not qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Falcons also failed to secure a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

With their departure, Nigerian football is going through a big change. The National Sports Commission is trying to start a normalization process, which FIFA is supporting.

During a chat on The Obi One Podcast with former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, Martins said Nigerian football needs new ideas. He suggested that Tinubu could be part of the solution.

"I mean, it’s always been like that, you know, so we just need someone that can help. Someone, you know, a young person that understands the game, that understands the system, that can help us. And I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too," Martins said.

Former international Ifeanyi Udeze disagreed with Martins' suggestion. He called it a bad idea while speaking on Brila FM.

"For me, it’s a bad idea. I don’t know what made Martins make such a statement, maybe because he’s a friend to Seyi Tinubu, but as I said, I don’t buy the idea," Udeze said.

He continued, "If Martins claims we need young people to come and run our football, there are other young people. I was thinking he would mention a young person like Seyi Olofinjana. I was surprised by his choice, so for me, Obafemi Martins is on his own."

Martins' support for Tinubu also led to criticism on social media. Some users accused him of promoting nepotism and political influence in football.

"The guy (Martins) goofed, big time. He might be eyeing one appointment or contract, but his plan is void ab initio," a Facebook user, Anthony Azubuike, commented.

Another user, Aina Ariyo, claimed that Martins is part of a political movement set up by Seyi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.